wild happenings in singapore: June 2014

23-29 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Make a wild difference!

Mangrove cleanup at Sungei Api-Api (Pasir Ris Park)

Wild talks

28 Jun (Sat): Filming Eagles with Simon Cherriman

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Pulau Ubin Ramble

29 Jun (Sun): Paint along with Pui San at Sungei Buloh

Free art-and-nature appreciation at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

Tham Pui San, a volunteer of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, is an avid artist who expresses his passion for nature through his art work.

Pui San welcomes artists of all ages or anyone who wants to learn. His objective is to encourage creativity while enjoying nature at the same time. Bring along your favourite drawing or painting supplies and enjoy learning different drawing techniques at Sungei Buloh.

More in the art in the wetlands blog.

Time: 8.30-11.30am, meet at Information Counter, Visitor Centre.
Admission charges:While the art session is free, usual admission charges to Reserve apply. $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://artinwetlands.wordpress.com/
Contact: Tham Pui Sam at thampuisan@hotmail.com or the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at info@sbwr.org.sgor call 6794 1401

29 Jun (Sun): Mangrove cleanup at Sungei Api-Api (Pasir Ris Park)

Sungei Api-api and its river bank is home to many native and migratory birds, otters and other animals important to the eco-system. With waste thrown into the sea and increasing development around the area, the mangroves are getting more polluted than it is naturally created to handle, threatening the homes of these animals and the ecosystem that thrives.

Do come along with your family and friends and do your part for the environment, to understand the importance of protecting our fragile eco-system and lastly, to have fun! What to bring and more details on The Green Volunteers facebook page.

This event is organised by The Green Volunteers and Sea Shepherd.

Time: 9.30am-12.30pm
Venue: Pasir Ris Carpark C; Wash up/Toilet area (near Gallop stable)
Contact and details on facebook

28 Jun (Sat): Filming Eagles with Simon Cherriman

Excited about eagles? Curious about making wildlife documentaries? Come meet Simon Cherriman, an enthusiastic Australian biologist who is in Singapore to film eagles.

He has been studying wedge-tailed eagles for many years, climbing trees to watch them since he was a young boy. He is a blogger, nature guide, researcher (recently satellite tracking eagles), film maker, environmental consultant, and children's educator. He's also a fantastic human being. His efforts led to him being awarded the Australian Geographic Young Conservationist of the Year in 2010. At this session, we will screen Simon's short film about wedged-tailed eagles in Australia, and follow with an open Q&A session with Simon.

All are welcome!

The event is free but pre-registration is required so we can notify you if there are any changes to the event. Register online here.

This event is brought to you by the Bird Group, Nature Society (Singapore).

Time: 5.00 - 6.30pm
Venue: Level 1, Conference Room, Tanglin Block, Tanglin International Centre, 354 Tanglin Road S(247672)
Simon's website: www.simoncherriman.com
Contact: Natalia at natalia@ecologymatters.com.sg

28 Jun (Sat): Workshop for kids - Oooo...owls!

Who goes "hoo-hoo" in our forests at night? Why do we think they are so wise? What "special powers" do they have? Do they exist here in Singapore?

Discover more about these beautiful nocturnal birds, and learn to make an owl hanging poster at the end of the session.

Suitable for kids 5-10 years.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 5.30-7.30pm, night walk: 8-8.45pm
Venue: HortPark, Greenhouse workshop area
Cost: $25 per child.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

28 Jun (Sat): Race Against Time – Science behind a Botanic Garden Tour

Join this free one-hour tour by the Botanic Gardens staff to learn more about the Gardens’ research work.

Come and explore the hub of the Gardens' research facilities at the Singapore Botanic Gardens to learn about botanical research. Find out about the urgency of plant exploration, collection and scientific documentation as species and habitats continue to be lost in the region. Visit the Orchid Micro-propagation and hybridisation display and find out how new hybrids are produced. You can also enter the restricted domain of the Herbarium and Library to learn about the valuable historical treasures they hold for science and posterity.

Registration 15 minutes before the tour starts, and is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Green Pavilion, Botany Centre. Limited to 20 participants.

Time: 10-11am
Meeting point: Green Pavilion, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 64717361 / 64717138 orNParks_SBG_Visitor_Services@nparks.gov.sg .

28 Jun (Sat): EcoLife Family Tour @ Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

Ecolife is a 2-hour tour which introduces the park and the biodiversity found in Riverplains through the use of interactive exploration themes and activities. The tour aims to encourage family bonding between parents and child through the process of learning together. Join us as we take you through this tour with worksheets provided and fun hands on activities such as doing up your very own underwater viewing scope.

Free-of-Charge. First-come, first-served. Pre-registration is required by emailing pauline_tan@nparks.gov.sg with the following information: Name of participant, Name of child, Contact number number, Email Address

Time: 9-11am
Meeting point: Toilet Block near Promenade @ Bishan- Ang Mo Kio Park Riverplains
Venue : Kallang River @ the Riverplains
Contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ or call 6554 5136

28 Jun (Sat): Heritage Trees and Heritage Roads of Singapore

Heritage Trees and Heritage Roads are the natural heritage of Singapore and serve as important green landmarks of our City in a Garden. Join us to find out more about the Heritage Trees and Heritage Roads, and let us introduce to you the natural heritage that Singapore possesses.

Start with an introduction to Heritage Tree and Heritage Road Scheme at the Pacific Room at Woodlands Library and then board the coach to go on a Heritage discovery adventure. The tour will bring you to selected Heritage Trees and Heritage Roads in the Northern parts (Mandai Road, West Camp Road, Seletar Aerospace Drive and Old Birdcage Walk) You will then head back to Woodlands Library after the tour.

This is an estimated 2.5hours tour. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear comfortable attire and walking shoes. Do remember to bring your umbrella and some drinks. The maximum capacity for this tour is 35 pax.

Register online here.

Time: 10.30am - 1pm
Venue: Pacific Room, Woodlands Regional Library
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: nparks_urban_gardening@nparks.gov.sg.

28 Jun (Sat): NSS Kids’ Fun with Vertebrates at Upper Seletar Reservoir

Open to the Public - Registration Needed

Let your kids be inspired by 11-year old Mark Strange as he guides us in a fun romp through Upper Seletar Reservoir. Mark will point out the area’s many nature gems including birds and other vertebrates.

Please register your children (4 to 12 years old) with Gloria Seow at gloria_seow@yahoo.com, stating their names and ages, if they are NSS members or not, if you need us to loan you a pair of binoculars or not (FOC), and let us have your mobile number.

Time: 8-10am, Details will be emailed to those who sign up.
Cost: $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in at no charge.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

28 Jun (Sat): Pulau Ubin Ramble

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Starting from Pulau Ubin jetty to Tg Chek Jawa, this ramble will bring us through the unsullied eastern part of Pulau Ubin. Let us enjoy the birds, insects, plants, trees, serene countryside and village life. Wear good footwear and bring your binoculars, plenty of water, tidbits, fruits and chocolates. Not suitable for children below 12 years old.

Time: 7.45am meet at Changi Village Boat Jetty
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

28 Jun (Sat): Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

The Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Even though we are not going on to the shore, there is still much to see and enjoy. There are monitor lizards, fiddler crabs, spiders, rare plants, wild boar, mudskippers and lots of fruit trees. If we are lucky, we might even spot the Oriental Pied Hornbill, White-bellied Sea Eagle and the giant Atlas Moth.

Not more than five persons in a group, pre-register with this online form.

More details on the event and how to get to Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin on the Adventures with the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

Time: 9.30am meet at the Chek Jawa Info Kiosk, Pulau Ubin.
Duration: Two hours
Cost: no charge for now, but donations accepted.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

28 Jun (Sat): Young Naturalist Passport Camp (Basic) at Sungei Buloh

This one day camp encompasses a series of fun-filled and educational indoor and outdoor learning of the wetlands and nature conservation issues through worksheets, nature walks and hands-on activities. Children will earn a stamp for every completed activity, and a full collection of stamps will earn them a series of cloth badges.

Limited to 40 children between the age of 6 to 11 years old. Registration is required.

More information on the programme and online registration form on the Reserve website.

Time: 9am- 5pm
Cost: Each participant needs to purchase a young naturalist passport from the Visitor Services Counter at 50 cents. Registration of $5 is applicable, and cheques will be returned upon attendance and completion of the camp. The fee will be donated to the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve education fund if the child fails to turn up for the camp upon registration and confirmation. Admission charges (50 cents per child) apply.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: 67941401

28 Jun (Sat): Art in Nature

For the budding artist, this Wildlife Art workshop is for you! Get ready to busy yourself with sketchpads and paint brushes over the weekend with volunteer leader, Jerome Pang. You will get to develop your artistic skills while raising awareness on wildlife conservation & local biodiversity.

Register online

Time: 9am - 12noon
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park / Bukit Timah Nature Reserve/ Hindhede Nature Park (Rotational Basis) For enquiries, please contact Leen at fadzleen_arrifin@nparks.gov.sg / 98419965
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

28 Jun (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids

This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage.

Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Register at least 4 days in advance by emailing ruth_foo@nparks.gov.sg or jeanne_tan@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 9.30-10.30am. The workshop will be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

28 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come-first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

27 Jun (Fri): Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Nature Walk for kids with the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

The forest is fruiting! Be amazed by how giant trees prepare for their next generation, and experience the rich biodiversity of the nature reserve.

For kids aged 7 and up.

Limited places are available. For enquiries, please contact: Ms Tammy Lim nhmlimt@nus.edu.sg.

Time: 9-11.30am
Cost: $26.75
Website: http://lkcnhm.net/2014/06/09/lkcnhm-june-holiday-programmes/

24 Jun (Tue): Nature Keeper Camp

Designed to stimulate the interest of the young and inculcate in them an appreciation of our forests, it aims to nurture young volunteers in protecting our natural heritage in the longer term. Children will learn more about the fun facts of the forests in Singapore and have the opportunity to interact with nature.

Suitable for children 7 - 10 years old.

Only 20 spaces available. Registration is on a first-fome, first-served basis and is required at least 3 weeks in advance. Closing dates for registration is 13 May 2014. For enquiry or registration on Nature Keeper Camp, please email to ruth_foo@nparks.gov.sg or jeanne_tan@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9am-12noon
Venue: (Start Point) Bukit Timah Nature Reserve; (End Point) Dairy Farm Nature Park
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

16-22 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Birdwatching at Pulau Ubin

Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for the June school holidays!

And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

22 Jun (Sun): Mandarin guided tour at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Pre-register by calling 67941401, minimum 5 participants to start the tour and maximum 15. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve.

More about the Mandarin guided walks on the Purple Mangrove blog. More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

Time: 9.30-11.15am, meet at the Information Counter, Visitor Centre.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

22 Jun (Sun): Birdwatching at Pulau Ubin

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

We will take a bumboat to Pulau Ubin (fare is $2.50 per persona one way), an island that never fails to surprise and always with new things to be discovered. Willie will take you through the rural areas of Pulau Ubin to look for specialities of this island, including the Red Junglefowl, Oriental Pied Hornbill and the globally endangered Straw-headed Bulbul.

Time: 7.30am - 12noon. Meet at Changi Jetty
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

21 Jun (Sat): Free Pasir Ris Park Mangrove Guided Walk

Pasir Ris Mangrove Forest, home to a thriving habitat of unique plants and animals, is a piece of nature worth exploring. Venture into the dense 6-hectare mangrove forest on the boardwalk, and get up close and personal with mud crabs, mudskipper and water monitors.

Maximum 20 persons per session. Pre-registration required 7 days before the walk, please email mohamad_yusoff@nparks.gov.sg with name(s), age(s) of participant(s) and at least one contact number

Time: 9-10.30am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park, Car Park C, Toilet C1
Contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Jun (Sat): EcoLife Family Tour @ Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

21 Jun (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin

Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail.

This is an excellent introduction to the rustic and natural character of the island. You will be able to touch, see or smell fruit trees, spices and herbs for cooking, plants used in traditional medicine and native plants of the mangrove forest.

Book online. For more details about this walk, see the NParks website

More about the Sensory Trail on the wildsingapore website and Ubin Volunteers blog

Time: Walks starts 9.30am and lasts for about 1.5 hours. Meet at the Pulau Ubin Main Information Kiosk next to the Ubin Jetty. More on how to get to Pulau Ubin.
Cost: $60 per group of 15 persons, maximum 6 groups
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Jun (Sat): Let's Learn About Dragonflies - A guided tour for kids

Did you know that dragonflies are among one of the most ancient winged insects in the world? If we travel back to the Jurassic age, you will realise that they have not changed very much in terms of their body structures! Join us in this guided tour to learn more about this beautiful insect in Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. You will learn the differences between a dragonfly and damselfly, its life cycle as well as the habits of a dragonfly. During the tour, we will also observe the dragonflies up close with a magnifying glass.

Suitable for children in P1 – P3 levels

Register with the SBG Education Branch at 6471 9961 or 6465 0196 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg. Register online at www.sbg.org.sg(under "Education").

Time: 9.30-11am
Cost: $9 per child and $9 per accompanying adult
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Jun (Sat): National Orchid Garden guided tour

Explore the beauty and diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens. Over 1000 species and 2,000 hybrids are now found in the Gardens' collection, with about 600 species and hybrids on display. Every year, more vibrant and enduring hybrids are added on

Full map at http://www.sbg.org.sg/map_nog.htm

This walk is conducted by the volunteers of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every third Saturday of the month.

A tour in Mandarin is also conducted at 4pm.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am (English) and 4pm (Mandarin), register at Visitor Centre 15 minutes before the tour starts. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis.
Tour duration: One hour.
Cost: While the tour is free, admission charges to the Orchid Garden applies: $5/adult, $1/student, $1/senior citizens (above 60 years) , Child below 12 years - Free
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

21 Jun (Sat): A walk in an ancient forest, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the largest surviving primary rainforest in Singapore. Come and join us on a fascinating journey of discovery to learn more about the natural wonders of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and why we should protect and conserve its complex ecosystem and diversity.

This free guided walk will introduce you to the common native flora and fauna found in the primary rainforest.

This guided walk is suitable for families with children 9 and above, and groups of not more than 5. Along a slightly undulating natural path, the trail is not accessible to prams and wheelchairs.

More about the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Central Nature Reserve and is held every third Saturday of the month.

Sign up on this online form.

Time: 9.25am-10.30am. Meet at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, at the ranger counter.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

18 Jun (Wed): Free Pasir Ris Park Mangrove Guided Walk

18 Jun (Wed): Changi Beach Intertidal Walk with the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

It is low tide! Come explore this wonderful coastal habitat without guides and learn about the amazing marine life found here!

For kids aged 7 and up.

Limited places are available. For enquiries, please contact: Ms Tammy Lim nhmlimt@nus.edu.sg.

Time: 9-11am
Cost: $31.10
Website: http://lkcnhm.net/2014/06/09/lkcnhm-june-holiday-programmes/

17 Jun (Tue): Sara Goes Gardening - a guided tour for kids

Join Sara as she discovers fascinating facts and enjoys interesting stories about aloe vera, lemon grass, garlic, spring onion and many more nutritious and yummy herbs and spices. Alongside learning about plants for a healthier and stronger body, pick up gardening tips to grow your favourite plants for your very own kitchen garden!

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg. Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education").

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $9 per child (includes "Sara Goes Gardening" book) and $6 per accompanying adult.
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/

17 Jun (Tue): Seashorelife Study Walk at Changi Beach

Our seashores are still amazingly full of unique marine life! And during a low tide, many will be revealed to those who go looking for them. Come join us for this guided seashore walk at Changi Beach. Here one may encounter lovely sea stars, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and the strange sea pen. At Changi, there are also seagrass beds which are home and nursery to the young of marine critters such as the seahorse, pipefish, sea snails, crabs, and if we are lucky, we may even meet the very smart octopus. Kai, our special guest marine guide, has been onto many of our seashores studying their marine life and habitats.

Please wear: Teeshirt and shorts will do BUT ALL MUST WEAR fully-covered sports or school shoes, or dive booties, NOT SANDALS or any other open toe footwear that have ventilation gaps.

Please bring: Poncho/raincoat/umbrella, hat, fully-filled refillable water bottle, snacks.
Optional: camera, sunblock, sun glasses, towel and a change of clothes, slippers.

Please note:
-Do arrive on time as the tide will not wait. Walk ends by 11.00am back at this car park.
-With your safety in mind, those with unsuitable footwear will not be allowed to join in this walk!
-Seashores exposed during low tides are extremely fragile habitats with many critters living hidden in the mud and sand. Therefore we all have to be extra mindful to minimise our negative impacts while visiting this habitat.

Time: 8.00am to 11.00am. Meet at 8.00am at Car Park 1 of Changi Beach Park. This car park is at the junction of Telok Paku Road and Nicoll Drive, about 5 mins walk away over the Changi Creek bridge from Changi Village hawker centre. (map)
Cost: $13 per pax (adult or kid). Free for kids age 5 yrs and below accompanying adult participants.
Venue: Changi Beach Park
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

9-15 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Make a wild difference! Volunteer opportunities

Mangrove Conservation Work

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Figs Revisited

Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for the June school holidays!

And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

15 Jun (Sun): Nature Guided-walk at Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin with Cicada Tree Eco Place

In 2001, plans to destroy Chek Jawa were shelved. Chek Jawa is one of Singapore's most treasured and loved nature spots, with a diverse combination of scenic habitats and wildlife. Here exists rare coastal forest, rocky seashore, sea grass meadows, ancient coral reef rubble, mud-flats, mangrove and Attap Chee groves. The shallow sea here supports incredible marine biodiversity, and is home to the rare and globally-endangered Dugong or Sea Cow. We go onto the extensive boardwalk to access the various habitats and to spot a diversity of unique wildlife such as mudskippers, fiddler and tree-climbing crabs, the Great-billed Heron and many others. At Chek Jawa, the lush coastal forest grows right down to meet the Rocky Seashore where, if lucky, we may glimpse a flock of Red Jungle Fowl or a family of Wild Pigs beachcombing for seafood.

Please note: This walk will only be on the boardwalk and dirt trails. We will not be going onto the seashore or mud-flats. Bring poncho/raincoat/umbrella, hat, fully-filled refillable water bottle, herbal mosquito repellent. Wear long pants, otherwise wear thick repellent. Long-sleeved shirt, socks and covered shoes are recommended. Ubin has shops selling drinks and snacks. There are restaurants open for lunch and dinner.

To register, please email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile no.

Time: 8.30am-12.30pm. Meet at 8.30am at basement of Changi Jetty (also known as Changi Point Ferry Terminal) at Lorong Berkukong, 5 mins walk away from Changi Village hawker centre (map). Walk ends at 12.30pm back at Ubin Jetty.
Cost: $15 per pax (adult or kid). Free for kids age 5 yrs and below accompanying adult participants. Excludes the bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin at $2.50 per person one way, and the mini-bus ride to CJ at $4 per person return.
Venue: Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

14 Jun (Sat): Birdwatching at the Southern Ridges

If you are a bird-lover, be sure to join us for this free chirpy experience at Southern Ridges! Comprising a chain of green-open spaces and forested areas spanning the rolling hills of Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park, the Southern Ridges is home to numerous species of flora and fauna yet to be fully explored. 43 species of birds have been recently surveyed in this area, and some of them are even rare and uncommon. Bring your own binoculars and you may just spot some rare birds here!

This programme is brought to you by the Garden City Fund and ST-Microelectronics.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 7.30-9.30am
Venue: Meet at Telok Blangah Hill Park, Multi-Purpose Plaza
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

14 Jun (Sat): EcoLife Family Tour @ Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

14 Jun (Sat): Mangrove Conservation Work

Brimming with wildlife, the mangrove at Pasir Ris is a treasure worth conserving. Play a part in the preservation of this beautiful habitat for its natural residents by helping us maintain the trenches that channel water into the mangrove and salvaging the saplings. The work involved is physically demanding and participants should be in good physical condition. We would recommend this activity for volunteers who are 18 years old and above.

Individuals, families and organised groups of 10 members are welcome to sign up. Registration closes on 6 June (Friday). For enquiries and registration, please email mohamad_yusoff@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9-11am
Venue : Meet at Pasir Ris Park,Toilet C1,car park C.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

14 Jun (Sat): Nite Critter Watch at Pasir Ris Mangrove Boardwalk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

As dusk falls, we use a bat detector to locate bats. We explore deep into the mangrove forest via the extensive boardwalks to look for other nite critters such as the Dog-faced Watersnake and Black-crowned Night-heron.

Tree-climbing crabs can be seen perched high above on branches, as if they're birds. Several species of owls have been encountered here, plus the Large-tailed Nightjar, another nocturnal bird with a loud "chonk-chonk-chonk" call. Fireflies live in this forest. Though only seasonally numerous, we should meet some. This easy walk is on level pathways and wooden boardwalks. There will be a rest stop at the shelter over the scenic Tampines River.

Please note: Bring torchlight with batteries, poncho/raincoat/umbrella, fully-filled refillable water bottle, herbal mosquito repellent. Have an early dinner before coming. Please wear long pants, tee-shirt, socks and covered shoes. Long-sleeved shirt is recommended.

To register, please email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile no.

Time: 6.15 - 8.30pm, meet outside the public toilet block at right side of Car Park C at end of Pasir Ris Green Road which is off Pasir Ris Drive 3 road (map). Walk ends at starting point.
Cost: $13 per person (adult or kid). Free for kids age 5 yrs and below accompanying adult participants.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

14 Jun (Sat): Figs Revisited

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

While dipterocarps and the welcome appearance of other infrequently flowering trees dominate botanical small talk these days, the figs, as always, continue to flourish, fig, and feed animals of our forests. Figs are amongst the most important elements of our tropical forests. Join Angie Ng, first author of the Science Centre’s ‘Guide to the Fabulous Figs of Singapore’, on a tour of figs, both wild and planted (including some newly planted specimens). Join us as we experience the lure of the ficus from one of NSS' original ‘figgies’.

Time: 9 - 11am
Venue: Meet at the Singapore Botanic Gardens' Visitor Centre (Palm Court)
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

14 Jun (Sat): Art in Nature

14 Jun (Sat): Forest walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail

A free guided nature walk through a rainforest right in the heart of the city! Along a boardwalk, under the shade of giant trees, learn about our rainforests, spot forest creatures and strange plants.

Suitable for young children.

More about the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail on the wildsingapore website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NPark's Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every second Saturday of the month.

Tours in Mandarin are available at 10am and 4pm.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am and 4pm; Register 15 minutes before the tour at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One hour.
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services, 64717361 orNPARKS_SBG_Visitor_Services@NPARKS.GOV.SG

14 Jun (Sat): A walk with your neighbours - the macaques of Bukit Timah

The long-tailed macaques at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve are commonly seen, but often misunderstood. Few know about the social world of these monkeys. They have family members, power struggles, friends, foes, and a complex social network. In many ways, they mirror our own social life!

If you would like to learn more about your community and the interesting world of your neighbouring macaques at Bukit Timah, please join our walk, led by experts in these unique creatures.

Register at sg.monkey.walk@gmail.com, at least 3 days in advance. Do provide us with your name, contact number (in case of cancellation, we will contact you), number of adult and children participants (at most, 5 participants per registration). Upon receiving your registration, we will reply with a confirmation email. The walk will be cancelled if there is bad weather 45 minutes before the walk.

This walk is held every second Saturday of the month.

Time: 5-6.30pm
Venue: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (Meeting point is at the Ranger Counter)
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

14 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

10 Jun (Tue): Nature Keeper Camp

2-8 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for the June school holidays!

And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

7 Jun (Sat): Fun walk along the Southern Ridges

Take your family on a leisurely stroll through the Southern Ridges, a soothing sanctuary of greenery that is steeped in history and home to some of nature's greatest gifts of flora and fauna.

Highlights of the free tour include the Henderson Waves, Sembcorp Forest of Giants, Forest Walk and Singing Forest.

This free walk is conducted by the Sembcorp volunteer guides. The walk is free and made possible by Garden City Fund and Sembcorp.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 9-11am
Venue: Mount Faber Park, entrance of Henderson Waves.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

7 Jun (Sat): EcoLife Family Tour @ Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

7 Jun (Sat): Free Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks and it's open even at night! Join the Naked Hermit Crabs for an evening stroll through this interesting but often overlooked mangrove.

Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers and cool monitor lizards. Pasir Ris is also one of the few places where nesting herons are easily observed. And as the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. If we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare Mangrove pitta or the family of otters that have been seen here! More details on the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

Register through this online form. A confirmation note will be sent.

Time: 5pm. We should end at around 6.30pm, just before sunset.
Meeting point: Pasir Ris Park, Carpark C, meet near the first toilets nearest the entrance to the carpark. The meeting point is a short stroll from the Pasir Ris MRT station. Map
Website and contact: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/

7 Jun (Sat): Prawn and Fish Demo at Sungei Buloh

Free guided introduction to traditional prawn farming. Go on a journey back to the past, where the history of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve as prawn and fish farms is one not to be ignored. The importance of mangroves as a spawning place and nursery for prawns and other life played an important role in shaping Sungei Buloh today. The traditional method of prawn harvesting will be demonstrated and how the tidal influence play a part in this activity will be brought to life.

The highlight is a real hands-on demonstration of a prawn harvest. The kids will be thrilled to check out what comes up with the net, see real live prawns and learn more about our seafood and the tides.

The walk is approximately 5km on wide earthen trails. Suitable for older children who are reasonably fit.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups.

More about PrawnWatch on the Sungei Buloh website. More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website andSungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

Time: Visitors are advised to reach the Reserve by 9am. Meet the guide at the Information Counter to bring you for an approximate half an hour walk to the prawn and fish demostration site.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

7 Jun (Sat): Sara Goes Gardening - a guided tour for kids

7 Jun (Sat): Tour of the Healing Garden, Botanic Gardens

A free guided tour of the Healing Garden which showcases over 400 varieties of plants used medicinally.

It is laid out thematically relating to component parts of the body such as head, respiratory and reproductive systems. Spread over 2.5 hectares, this garden is designed as a tranquil retreat with medical plants traditionally used in Southeast Asia as the main focus.

This walk is conducted every first Saturday of the month.

Time: 9am and 10am, please register 15 minutes before the tour
Venue: Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Visitor Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services (6471 7361)

7 Jun (Sat): FREE HeART for Nature - workshop for kids

Come join us for this free art workshop which helps children to learn more about our natural heritage and to express their love for nature through various art forms.

Suitable for children 5 - 7 years old (with parental supervision). Limited spaces are available. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Register by emailing ruth_foo@nparks.gov.sg.
Time: 9.30-10.30am. The workshop will be cancelled in the event of bad weather. For updates call 65427788.
Venue: Bukit Batok Nature Park
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

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